“She is in no present danger,” replied Chetham. “But, if it is thought fitting or desirable, I will remain with her.”
“I do not doubt it,” returned Catesby, with a sneer; “but it is neither fitting nor desirable. And, hark ye, young sir, if you have indulged any expectations with regard to Viviana Radcliffe, it is time you were undeceived. She will never wed one of your degree, nor of your faith.”
“I have her own assurance she will never wed at all,” replied Chetham, in an offended tone. “But had she not crushed my hopes by declaring she was vowed to a convent, no menaces of yours, who have neither right nor title thus to interfere, should induce me to desist from my suit.”
“Either resign all pretensions to her hand, or prepare to renew the combat,” cried Catesby, fiercely.
“No more of this,” interposed Guy Fawkes. “Let us return to the house, and adjust our differences there.”
“I have no further business here,” observed Humphrey Chetham. “Having taken leave of Viviana,” he added, with much emotion, “I do not desire to meet her again.”
“It is well, sir,” rejoined Catesby: “yet, stay!—you mean us no treachery?”
“If you suspect me, I will remain,” replied Humphrey Chetham.
“On no account,” interposed Guy Fawkes. “I will answer for him with my life.”
“Perhaps, when I tell you I have procured the liberation of Father Oldcorne,” returned Chetham, “and have placed him in security in Ordsall cave, you will admit that you have done me wrong.”